Description
A vibrant and refreshing Winter Salad that combines crisp mixed greens with the natural sweetness of pears, tart dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and tangy blue cheese, all brought together by a light and flavorful white wine vinaigrette. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side for holiday meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 10 ounces mixed greens
- 3 pears, chopped
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
Vinaigrette
- 6 tablespoons white wine vinegar (champagne vinegar recommended if available)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, add the mixed greens, chopped pears, dried cranberries, and pecan halves. Toss gently to mix evenly.
- Prepare the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and optional sugar until well emulsified.
- Toss salad with dressing: Pour the vinaigrette over the salad mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing.
- Add blue cheese topping: Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the top of the salad as a flavorful finishing touch before serving.
Notes
- Champagne vinegar can be substituted with any good quality white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a slightly different flavor.
- The sugar in the dressing is optional and can be omitted for a less sweet vinaigrette.
- Toast the pecans lightly for added crunch and enhanced flavor, if desired.
- This salad is best served fresh; however, you can prepare the dressing ahead and store separately to keep greens crisp.
- Blue cheese can be replaced with goat cheese or feta for a milder taste.
